A phenomenal football match saw Qatar Airways’ sponsored FC Barcelona beat Al-Ahli Saudi FC, during the Match of Champions, with the winning side taking home the Qatar Airways Cup trophy. The match was hosted by Qatar Airways, the proud sponsor of both prestigious clubs who arrived to play in front of a crowd of 18,000 fans from around the world.

Spectators were treated to an incredible show that extended beyond the match action to include entertainment provided by beloved Qatari singer Fahad Al Kubaisi, a spectacular fireworks display, and 100 Qatar Airways cabin crew on the pitch carrying giant shirts for each of the competing clubs.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, and His Excellency Mr. Hassan Al Thawadi, Vice President of the Organizing Committee, presented the winners with the stunning 18 carat gold Qatar Airways Cup trophy, and handed out commemorative medals to the players of both teams. Inspired by the modern aircraft they fly, the trophy was designed by a team from Qatar Airways itself.

H.E. Mr. Al Baker commented; “Qatar Airways is proudly associated with the best – be that as the best airline with the best crew in the skies, or as the sponsor of the best football clubs in the world.

The Match of Champions brought together two sides that are loved across the globe, with fans travelling to Doha from every corner of the world to watch this spectacular football event. Our congratulations go to FC Barcelona for a well-deserved win of the Qatar Airways Cup, and to both sides for a superb match. Qatar is earning a reputation as the home of international football in the GCC, and Qatar Airways is fully supportive of realising this in support of the vision of our Government.”

This year, Al-Ahli FC won the Saudi Professional League – the first time in 32 years. The club won the Saudi Super Cup and the King Cup, and came runner-up in the Crown Prince Cup. Meanwhile, FC Barcelona won their 24th La Liga title this year, the Copa del Rey and they are the reigning champions of the Fifa Club World Cup. The club won the treble in the 2014/2015 season – La Liga, Copa del Rey and UEFA Champions League titles.

In October 2014, Qatar Airways announced a sponsorship agreement for three seasons with Al-Ahli. Earlier this year, Qatar Airways extended its FC Barcelona sponsorship for another season, with the deal running until July 2017.

Qatar Airways operates 14 weekly non-stop flights from Barcelona to Doha, with connections to points across the Middle East, Asia Pacific and Africa.

The airline also operates 28 weekly frequencies to Jeddah, the home of Al Ahli Saudi FC.